Nebraska Woman Charged with Gas Station Fraud Scheme

A Nebraska woman has been charged with felony theft after allegedly exploiting a rewards card glitch at a gas station, allowing for free fuel access. The 45-year-old was arrested on March 6, following allegations that her actions cost the gas station approximately $28,000.

Authorities reported that the woman manipulated the system over several months. In October, the loss-prevention manager at Bosselman Enterprises noticed suspicious activity at their Pump & Pantry station in Lincoln. The gas station had undergone a software update in November 2022, which inadvertently introduced a glitch. This glitch permitted individuals to put the pump into a demonstration mode by swiping a rewards card twice, leading to free gasoline dispensing.

Prosecutors shared that the loss-prevention manager identified one specific rewards card being used frequently for free gas. Police traced this card back to the suspect. Video surveillance confirmed her repeated visits from November 2022 until June 1, the day the glitch was rectified.

Investigators believe the woman not only exploited the glitch for personal gain but also allowed another individual to use her card for a fee. This individual informed police that she paid for discounted fuel, ultimately costing her $500 for gas worth around $700.

In total, the card was used 510 times, resulting in over 7,400 gallons of free gasoline being pumped, according to a probable cause statement. The suspect is currently out on bond, with her court hearing scheduled for April 11. Authorities attempted to reach her attorney for comment on Tuesday.